Studying alone or Studying in a Group – Which is Better?

Group study involves a small set of people working towards a common interest. The study group environment offers students the opportunity to engage in a more in-depth discussion with peers, sharing information and knowledge about a course they are collectively enrolled in. Being a member of a study group where everyone actively strives to learn and remain on task can be very advantageous toward one’s academic success.

1. Helps with Procrastination

Procrastination is an evil that creeps through the mind of all who work. We may be distracted or tend to keep off from work during exam times or before submitting assignments/projects. Being in a group helps you focus more keenly apart from maintaining interest having lighter moments with your peers.

2. Different Perspectives

In a group, you get to hear about various view-points from all sides. It gives you a deeper and wider insight into the topic that keeps even more acquainted with the on-goings. One may reach better conclusions and improve the critical skills and learn from them.

3. Improve/Develop new skills

Note taking, organizational skills, debating skills are some things you will greatly improve upon in an encouraging group study.

4. Good company

Group study also makes you more social. Studying in isolation can be monotonous whereas one can derive both knowledge and fun from group study. It is an opportunity to make new friends and bond well.

5. Understand more efficiently

Studying on own involves spending considerable amount of time puzzling over difficult topics. There are times when time is short. Group study is an opportunity to explain concepts, review material, exchange ideas, and disagree/reason with one another about why one person’s answer differs from another. Thus, one can seek clarification and learn faster working in a group setting while gaining personal skills.

6. Minimizes test anxiety

Test anxiety is an uneasiness experienced before, during, or after an examination because of concern, worry, or fear. Some students find that anxiety interferes with their
learning and test taking to such an extent that their grades are seriously affected. Being in a study group with motivated classmates is often helpful. Instructors agree that study groups improve student performance on tests and in classroom discussions.

7. Enhance your general/professional skills

Study groups can help you develop as a student, person, and professional. Study groups encourage members to think creatively and build strong communication skills. Participating in study groups makes you feel more confident and comfortable about reaching academic goals.